Why you should visit Old Dubai

Insider's guide to the traditional heart of the city

By
Holly Sands
12 August 2014

It’s normally the city’s newer neighbourhoods soaking up the limelight, but recently eyes have returned to Old Dubai. The exciting and ambitious relaunch of Palm Deira as Deira Islands, the arrival of new restaurants and bars at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and the revival of the Dubai Canal project extending the Creek have all refocused attention on the city’s older communities. But why wait for Old Dubai to become, erm, New Old Dubai before you really get to know them? Discovering hidden gems and seeking out those in-the-know spots isn’t just the preserve of adventurous tourists – having a rich, expert knowledge of your city is as empowering as it is rewarding. To help you get started on your journey of discovery, we’ve rounded up each need-to-know foodie haunt, shop and street in the emirate’s original neighbourhoods. Got some of your own secret hangouts to share? Drop us a line – we’d love to hear from you...